mineral

Milky quartz–rich rock

Quartz (SiO₂), likely massive milky quartz with minor dark inclusions

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

White to gray, translucent to opaque, with a vitreous-to-waxy luster and no obvious cleavage; quartz hardness is Mohs 7 and specific gravity about 2.65. The dark areas may be mica, amphibole, iron oxides, or host-rock material.

Identified August 8, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed when silica-rich fluids crystallized in a vein or cavity, potentially within an igneous or metamorphic host rock; the specimen’s exact age and host cannot be determined from the image. Quartz veins occur in many geological periods and settings.

Uses & applications

Common milky quartz has limited commercial value but is used as silica feedstock, aggregate, and ornamental stone; attractive pieces are collected or occasionally polished.

Geological facts

Quartz commonly fractures conchoidally and can scratch ordinary glass. Its cloudy appearance results from microscopic fluid inclusions, fractures, or mineral impurities.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its glassy sheen, lack of cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and ability to scratch glass; a streak test should be white. Common worldwide in hydrothermal veins, pegmatites, and metamorphic rocks.